Derby County have appointed Gary Rowett as the club’s new manager on a contract until the end of the 2018-19 season.

The Rams sacked Steve McClaren for a second time on Sunday night, with the club 10th in the Championship table. Derby’s 3-0 defeat to Brighton last Friday night was the final straw for the club’s board and Rowett will now be hoping to improve the club’s fortunes.

The former Derby defender had been unemployed since December following his sacking at Birmingham. Rowett will be joined by Kevin Summerfield as his assistant while Mark Sale will become the club’s new first-team coach.

Kevin Poole has been appointed the new goalkeeping coach, with Joe Carnall taking over as head of performance analysis. Rowett insists he has a “special bond” with the club and is already excited about working with the squad.

He said in a statement: “I feel that I have a special bond with the club having been here as a player. During that time, we tasted success when we were promoted to the Premier League and moved to Pride Park Stadium under Jim Smith.

“Living in the local area, I understand the expectation of the fanbase and it goes without saying that Derby County has fantastic and committed supporters.

“I am fully aware of the playing squad here and I am looking forward to working with them all first hand.”

Rowett’s first game will be Saturday’s clash at Nottingham Forest, with the Rams 2.38 to win. Forest are priced at 3.00 while the draw is available at odds of 3.25.